Lauren Haygood is a geoscientist and science communicator dedicated to environmental research and public engagement. She earned her B.Sc. (2019) and M.Sc. (2021) in Geosciences from The University of Tulsa. Her thesis focused on biogeochemistry; specifically trace and heavy metal cycling in aquatic systems, and the impact on the local mussel population. Currently, Lauren is a Ph.D. candidate at Oklahoma State University, where she applies geochemical techniques to marine sediments to reconstruct past environmental conditions. During her academic tenure, Lauren has advised and mentored multiple high school students, 16 undergraduate students, and 5 M.Sc. students in geoscience research.

Beyond research, Lauren is involved in science policy and outreach. She serves on national and international geoscience committees, contributes to STEM education and initiatives, and developed and leads a community science project focusing on addressing water quality in Oklahoma (see also: geoscienceinaction.org/-/media/files/geoscience-in-action/023-4187542760-geoscience-in-action-report-web.pdf pages 57-59). Her efforts aim to bridge the gap between scientists, policymakers, and the public, ensuring environmental research has a meaningful societal impact.

Lauren's work has been recognized in various forms, including the Sierra Club Magazine (2024), AGU Eos Career Issue (2022), and Owasson to Watch (2021, Owasso Reporter). She continues to advocate for sustainability, water infrastructure, and scientific ocean drilling while mentoring the next generation of scientists.

• My favorite phrase is “mussels are livers for rivers.” 

• My favorite element is Osmium.

• My favorite mineral is Cinnabar.

• My favorite river is the Onyx River in Antarctica.

• My favorite lake is Sanborn Lake in Oklahoma.

• My favorite aquifer is the Garber-Wellington Aquifer in Oklahoma.

• My favorite ocean is the Arctic Ocean.